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BAE SYSTEMS To Provide Power Management Subsystem For Multifunction Army Vehicle

08 Oct 2003

BAE Systems Power Systems will develop the power management subsystem for the U.S. Armys Multifunction Utility/Logistics Equipment vehicle, or MULE. Lockheed Martin is developing the MULE under the Armys Future Combat Systems (FCS) program and has selected BAE Systems as the propulsion and power subsystem integrator.

The award is the result of the companys proven expertise in fielding heavy-duty commercial hybrid electric vehicles and decades of military program experience with integration of power systems and diesel-electric propulsion on military tactical trucks and unmanned ground vehicles.

As the leading provider of advanced electric drives and power management systems for medium and heavy vehicles, we are proud to be a member of the Lockheed Martin team in developing the MULE, said Hank McGlynn, vice president of BAE Systems Power Systems. Our technology has proven itself on platforms ranging from a 6-foot unmanned combat vehicle to 40,000-pound transit vehicles, and we look forward to supporting Lockheed Martin, the FCS Lead System Integrator team of Boeing and Space Applications International Corporation, and the Army in this exciting endeavor.

The company will provide an integrated power subsystem that includes electric propulsion and related subsystems to serve the MULEs common mobility platform, mission equipment packages, and C4ISR suite. The propulsion and power subsystem architecture is highly modular, offering improved supportability and a path for enhanced capabilities and growth through spiral technology insertion to support the MULE throughout its life cycle.

Under contract with the FCS Lead System Integrator team, consisting of Boeing [NYSE: BA] and Science Applications International Corporation, Lockheed Martin is developing three variants of the MULE: for equipment transport, air-assault missions, and countermine missions. Common to each variant is an advanced 6x6 independent articulated suspension, with in-hub motors powering each wheel, that provides mobility in complex terrain that far exceeds that of vehicles using conventional suspension systems. These extraordinary capabilities will allow soldiers in the Objective Force to use technology to do the dull, dirty, and dangerous jobs of the current forces, freeing them to focus on the success of their missions.

About BAE SYSTEMS:

BAE Systems is an international company engaged in the development, delivery, and support of advanced defence and aerospace systems in the air, on land, at sea, and in space.

The company designs, manufactures, and supports military aircraft, surface ships, submarines, radar, avionics, communications, electronics, and guided weapon systems. It is a pioneer in technology with a heritage stretching back hundreds of years. It is at the forefront of innovation, working to develop the next generation of intelligent defence systems.

BAE Systems has major operations across five continents and customers in some 130 countries. The company employs more than 90,000 people and generates annual sales of approximately $19 billion through its wholly owned and joint-venture operations.

BAE Systems North America is a high-technology U.S. company employing more than 25, 000 people who live and work in some 30 states, the District of Columbia, and the United Kingdom. The company is dedicated to solving its customers, needs with highly innovative and leading edge solutions across the defence electronics, systems, information technology, and services arenas.

BAE Systems Power Systems is part of the companys Platform Solutions Sector, a leading global supplier of integrated electronic control products, subsystems, and man-machine interface systems for air, space, sea, and ground vehicles, developing and produces electronic vehicle management systems, electronic engine controls, cockpit and helmet displays, and inertial systems for a variety of platforms including fixed- and rotary-wing aircraft, missiles, ground vehicles, ships, and space launch vehicles. It also produces HybriDriveTM propulsion systems for intra-city transit buses and other medium and large vehicles. Based in Johnson City, New York, it employs approximately 6,400 people at 12 facilities in the United States and the United Kingdom.